The Monumental will witness an exciting match between River's coach, Marcelo Gallardo, and his second son, Matías Gallardo, who currently plays for Instituto de Córdoba. Matías joined 'La Gloria' in this transfer window after playing for Atlanta United and participating in 31 matches with the B team last season.
Matías made his debut in a friendly match with River in April 2023 against the University of Chile in Salta, under the direction of Martín Demichelis. With River's Reserve team, he played 47 matches, scoring one goal and providing six assists. His arrival at Instituto gives him the opportunity to return to the stadium where he experienced many emotions with his father.
The matchup at the Monumental will be special, as Matías will play against the club that Marcelo coaches and supports. Known as the 'most similar to the 'Muñeco'' by his grandfather Don Máximo, Matías is an outstanding offensive midfielder characterized by his quick thinking in the game.
Although Matías Gallardo will not be part of the starting lineup in the second match of the 2025 Apertura Tournament against River, he will be on the substitute bench. This is not the first time Marcelo Gallardo has faced one of his sons in football, as he previously experienced a similar situation with Nahuel Gallardo, who played as a left-back.
